Underfloor Heating Installation in Chorley, Preston & Lancashire
Underfloor heating is one of the most efficient and comfortable ways to heat your home. Instead of relying on traditional wall radiators, underfloor heating systems distribute warmth evenly across the entire floor surface, creating a consistent temperature throughout the room.
At Croston Plumbing & Heating, we install high-quality wet underfloor heating systems across Chorley, Preston, Leyland and surrounding Lancashire areas. With more than 20 years of experience in heating installations, our Gas Safe registered engineers design and install reliable heating systems tailored to your property.
Whether you’re building a new extension, renovating a bathroom, or upgrading your home’s heating system, underfloor heating offers a modern, energy-efficient solution.
What is Underfloor Heating?
Underfloor heating (UFH) is a modern heating system that warms your home from the ground up. Instead of relying on traditional wall radiators, heat is distributed evenly across the floor surface, creating a comfortable and consistent temperature throughout the room.
Underfloor heating works by circulating warm water through pipes installed beneath the floor surface or by using electric heating mats. The heat gently rises through the floor, warming the entire space evenly.
At Croston Plumbing & Heating, we specialise in wet underfloor heating systems, which are the most energy-efficient option for heating larger areas of your home.
There are three main types of wet underfloor heating systems used in UK homes.
1. In-Screed Underfloor Heating Systems
In-screed systems are the most common type of underfloor heating used in new builds, extensions and full renovations.
The heating pipes are installed onto insulation boards and then covered with a layer of screed or concrete. This creates a strong thermal mass that holds heat efficiently and distributes warmth evenly across the floor.
Benefits of in-screed systems include:
• Excellent heat retention
• Highly energy efficient
• Ideal for large areas and open-plan spaces
• Perfect for new build properties and extensions
2. Overlay Underfloor Heating Systems (Retrofit)
Overlay systems also known as low profile systems are designed specifically for existing homes where floor height needs to be kept to a minimum.
These systems use specially designed low-profile boards that sit directly on top of the existing floor. The heating pipes are installed into these boards before the final floor covering is applied.
Overlay systems are commonly used in:
• Bathroom renovations
• Kitchen refurbishments
• Whole-house retrofit projects
• Homes where removing the floor is not practical
They are a great solution for homeowners across Chorley, Preston and Leyland looking to upgrade their heating without major structural work.
3. Between Joists Underfloor Heating Systems
Between-joists systems are installed between timber floor joists and are often used in upstairs floors or timber-framed homes.
The heating pipes sit between the joists beneath the floorboards, allowing the system to heat the room from below without significantly raising the floor level.
This type of installation is ideal for:
• Timber floor constructions
• First floor heating systems
• Renovation projects
• Properties where screed systems are not suitable
These wet underfloor heating systems can be connected to modern boilers or air source heat pumps, making them an efficient heating solution for both new builds and existing homes across Lancashire.
Electric Underfloor Heating
Electric underfloor heating uses heating cables or mats installed directly beneath the floor surface. Unlike wet systems, electric UFH doesn’t require pipework, a manifold, or connection to your boiler, making it a fast and cost-effective option for individual rooms.
These systems are typically installed in:
- Bathrooms
- Kitchens
- Conservatories
- Small renovation projects
Electric systems can usually be installed in a single day and are ideal for homeowners who want warm floors in one or two rooms without the commitment of a whole-home wet system. They respond quickly, typically warming up within 20-30 minutes, and are best managed with a programmable thermostat to keep running costs down.
Wet vs Electric comparison
| Wet Underfloor Heating | Electric Underfloor Heating | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Warm water through pipes beneath the floor | Electric cables or heating mats |
| Best suited to | Extensions, new builds, larger areas & whole floors | Bathrooms and smaller individual rooms |
| Heat source | Boiler or heat pump | Electricity |
| Installation | More involved | Generally simpler |
| Floor build-up | Depends on the chosen system | Usually relatively low |
| Larger areas | Often better suited | Can be more expensive to operate |
| Retrofit options | Yes – including low-profile systems | Yes |
| Heat pump compatible | Excellent combination | Not connected to the heat pump |
| What we recommend | Determined following survey | Determined following survey |
Not sure which system is right for your property? We’ll assess your room size, floor construction, insulation, existing heating system and how you intend to use the space before recommending an appropriate solution.
Benefits of Underfloor Heating
More homeowners across Chorley, Preston and Leyland are choosing underfloor heating due to the comfort and efficiency it provides.
Even Heat Distribution
Underfloor heating warms the entire floor surface, eliminating cold spots and creating consistent warmth throughout the room.
Lower Energy Consumption
Because UFH operates at lower temperatures than traditional radiators, it can reduce energy usage and improve heating efficiency.
More Space and Better Design
Without radiators on the walls, you gain extra space and more flexibility when designing your room layout.
Silent Operation
Underfloor heating systems run quietly without the clicking and expansion noises often associated with radiator pipework.
Compatible with Modern Heating Systems
Underfloor heating works perfectly with modern condensing boilers and renewable heating systems such as air source heat pumps.
Our Underfloor Heating Installation Process
At Croston Plumbing & Heating we make the installation process simple and stress-free.
Step 1 – Free Survey
One of our heating engineers will visit your property to assess the floor construction, insulation levels and heating requirements.
Step 2 – System Design
We design a tailored underfloor heating layout to ensure even heat distribution and maximum efficiency.
Step 3 – Professional Installation
Our experienced engineers install the pipework, manifolds and controls to the highest standards.
Step 4 – Testing & Commissioning
The system is pressure tested, balanced and connected to your heating system.
Step 5 – System Handover
We show you how to control your thermostats and heating zones so you can easily manage your home’s temperature.
Underfloor Heating & Air Source Heat Pumps
Underfloor heating can be an excellent partner for an air source heat pump because both systems are well suited to lower-temperature heating.
Underfloor heating distributes warmth across a large floor area rather than relying on a relatively small radiator. This can allow rooms to be heated effectively using lower flow temperatures, which is particularly beneficial when designing a heating system around a heat pump.
If you’re considering both underfloor heating and an air source heat pump, it’s important to look at the property as a complete heating system. Floor construction, insulation, heat loss, required room temperatures and heating controls all need to be considered.
Croston Plumbing & Heating can assess whether UFH, appropriately sized radiators, or a combination of both would suit your property.
Spread the Cost of Underfloor Heating
Underfloor heating can be a significant investment, particularly when you’re heating an extension, renovating several rooms or installing a system across an entire floor.
Croston Plumbing & Heating offers flexible finance options, allowing eligible customers to spread the cost of their underfloor heating installation rather than paying the full amount upfront.
0% APR finance is available over 12 or 24 months, subject to lender assessment. Longer repayment terms are also available at representative interest rates.
Once we’ve surveyed your property and provided your UFH quotation, our team can explain the available finance options and how to apply.
How Much Does Underfloor Heating Cost?
The cost of underfloor heating depends on several factors including the size of the room, floor preparation required and whether a wet or electric system is installed.
As a general guide:
Electric underfloor heating
Typical installation cost for a bathroom or small room starts from around £300 to £800.
Wet underfloor heating systems
Installation for larger areas such as ground floors or extensions typically starts from £2,500 to £8,000+ depending on system size.
Croston Plumbing & Heating also offers 0% finance options to help spread the cost of larger installations.
For an accurate quote tailored to your property, we recommend booking a free survey with our team.
Underfloor Heating for Bathrooms
Underfloor heating is particularly popular in bathroom renovations because it keeps tiled floors warm and eliminates the need for bulky radiators.
Benefits include:
Warm bathroom floors during winter
More wall space for bathroom furniture
Perfect for modern walk-in showers
Ideal for tiled and stone floors
Many of our bathroom installation projects include underfloor heating systems to improve comfort and energy efficiency.
Underfloor Heating Installers Across Lancashire & the North West
Based in Eccleston near Chorley, Croston Plumbing & Heating installs underfloor heating systems for homeowners, renovators, builders and property developers throughout Lancashire and the wider North West.
Our core service areas include Chorley, Preston and Leyland, with installations also available across surrounding locations including Eccleston, Croston, Euxton, Buckshaw Village, Clayton-le-Woods, Coppull, Fulwood, Broughton, Penwortham, Cottam, Bamber Bridge, Lostock Hall, Wigan, Standish, Horwich, Leigh, Ormskirk, Chorley Skelmersdale and Southport.
If your location isn’t listed, contact our team on 01257 452 879 to check availability for your project.
Why Choose Croston Plumbing & Heating?
Homeowners across Lancashire trust Croston Plumbing & Heating for their heating installations because we provide reliable, high-quality workmanship and honest advice.
✔ Gas Safe Registered engineers
✔ Worcester Bosch accredited installers
✔ Over 20 years industry experience
✔ Local family-run business based in Chorley
✔ Free surveys and quotations
✔ 0% finance available
✔ Fully insured and qualified engineers
We take pride in delivering heating systems that are efficient, reliable and built to last.
Get Your Free Underfloor Heating Estimate 👇
Tell us a few details about your project and our team will be in touch to discuss the best wet underfloor heating solution for your home or project in Chorley, Preston, Leyland and surrounding Lancashire areas.
No plans or dimensions yet? No problem. Send us your enquiry and we’ll still be happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Underfloor Heating
1. Is underfloor heating suitable for an existing house?
Yes. Underfloor heating isn’t limited to new builds. Wet underfloor heating can often be installed as part of an extension, renovation or retrofit project. Low-profile systems can be particularly useful where increasing the existing floor height needs to be kept to a minimum.
The best system depends on your existing floor construction, available floor height, insulation and heating requirements. We can assess these during a survey and recommend a suitable approach.
2. Can underfloor heating work with my existing boiler?
Yes, in many properties wet underfloor heating can work with an existing gas boiler. The system is designed to circulate water through pipework beneath the floor, with appropriate controls used to manage the required temperatures.
Whether your existing boiler is suitable will depend on factors such as its condition, output and the overall heating requirements of the property. We can assess the existing heating system as part of your Underfloor Heating survey.
3. Is underfloor heating good with an air source heat pump?
Yes. Wet underfloor heating can be an excellent partner for an air source heat pump because underfloor heating distributes warmth across a large surface area and can operate effectively at lower flow temperatures.
If you’re considering a heat pump, we’ll look at the property’s heat loss, insulation, floor construction and heating requirements to determine whether underfloor heating, appropriately sized radiators or a combination of both would be suitable.
4. Can I have underfloor heating downstairs and radiators upstairs?
Yes. A property doesn’t necessarily need underfloor heating in every room. Many heating systems combine underfloor heating on the ground floor with radiators upstairs.
The different areas can be designed and controlled appropriately as part of the overall heating system.
5. What is the difference between wet and electric underfloor heating?
Wet underfloor heating circulates heated water through pipes installed beneath the floor and can be connected to a suitable boiler or heat pump. It is commonly considered for extensions, new builds and larger areas.
Electric underfloor heating uses electric cables or mats and can be useful for individual rooms such as bathrooms.
The most appropriate option depends on the size of the area, how frequently it will be heated, the existing floor and the wider heating system.
6. Can underfloor heating be installed without digging up my entire floor?
Potentially. Low-profile or overlay wet underfloor heating systems can be installed over certain existing floors, which can make them particularly useful for renovation and retrofit projects.
However, every property is different. Existing floor levels, door clearances, insulation and the final floor covering all need to be considered before deciding which system is suitable.
7. How much does wet underfloor heating cost?
The cost depends on the size of the area, type of UFH system, number of heating zones, floor construction, insulation requirements, controls and how much preparation work is required.
A single-room retrofit will be very different from installing underfloor heating throughout a large extension or an entire ground floor. Croston Plumbing & Heating can survey your property and provide a quotation based on the proposed system.
8. Can I get finance for an underfloor heating installation?
Yes. Croston Plumbing & Heating offers finance options on eligible underfloor heating installations.
0% APR finance is available over 12 or 24 months, subject to status and lender assessment, with longer-term finance options also available.
Once we’ve provided your installation quotation, our team can explain the available options and application process.
9. What flooring can I use with underfloor heating?
Underfloor heating can work with many common floor finishes, including tiles, stone and certain engineered timber, laminate and vinyl products.
Different materials transfer heat differently, so the final floor covering needs to be considered when the system is designed. Always check that the flooring and any underlay are approved by the manufacturer for use with underfloor heating.
10. Is underfloor heating suitable for bathrooms?
Yes. Underfloor heating is particularly popular in bathrooms because it provides warmth across the floor while reducing the need to rely entirely on wall-mounted heat emitters.
The system still needs to be designed around the bathroom’s heat requirements, floor construction and chosen floor finish.
11. Does underfloor heating heat a room as well as radiators?
A correctly designed underfloor heating system can provide the required heat for many rooms. Instead of concentrating heat at individual radiators, UFH uses a much larger floor surface to distribute warmth throughout the space.
However, suitability depends on the property’s heat loss and available heated floor area. This is why the system should be designed around the requirements of the property rather than simply laying pipe beneath the floor.
12. Can each room have its own underfloor heating thermostat?
Underfloor heating systems can be divided into separate heating zones, allowing different areas or rooms to be controlled independently where the system design allows.
This can provide greater control over when and how different areas of the property are heated.
13. How long does underfloor heating take to warm up?
There isn’t one fixed warm-up time. It depends on the type of system, floor construction, insulation, floor covering and how the heating is controlled.
Low-profile systems can behave differently from pipework installed within a substantial screed floor. Underfloor heating is generally designed to provide steady, comfortable heating rather than the rapid bursts of heat often associated with radiators.
14. Is underfloor heating expensive to run?
Running costs depend on the property’s insulation, heat loss, system design, required room temperatures, controls, energy tariff and heat source.
A properly designed wet UFH system can operate using lower water temperatures than conventional radiator systems, but this doesn’t mean every property will automatically have lower heating bills. The complete heating system and building performance need to be considered.
15. Do I need to replace my boiler when installing underfloor heating?
Not necessarily. An existing boiler may be capable of working with a new wet underfloor heating system.
We’ll consider your existing boiler and heating system when assessing the project. If changes or upgrades are advisable, these can be discussed before the installation is agreed.
16. Can underfloor heating be installed in an extension?
Yes. Extensions are one of the best opportunities to consider wet underfloor heating because the system can often be incorporated while the new floor is being constructed.
It can also free up wall space that would otherwise be required for radiators, which can be particularly useful in open-plan kitchen, dining and living areas.
17. Do I still need radiators if I have underfloor heating?
Not always. A properly designed UFH system may be capable of meeting the heating requirement of a room without additional radiators.
However, this depends on factors such as room heat loss, insulation, glazing and available heated floor area. Some properties use UFH in certain areas and radiators elsewhere.
18. When should underfloor heating be installed during a renovation?
Ideally, UFH should be considered early in the renovation or extension planning process. Floor construction, insulation, finished floor levels, manifolds, heating zones, controls and the final floor covering can all affect the installation.
Getting us involved early can help ensure the heating system is considered alongside the rest of the project rather than being added as an afterthought.
19. Do you install underfloor heating near me?
Croston Plumbing & Heating installs underfloor heating across Chorley, Preston, Leyland and surrounding areas of Lancashire and the North West.
We cover locations including Eccleston, Croston, Euxton, Buckshaw Village, Clayton-le-Woods, Fulwood, Penwortham, Bamber Bridge, Wigan, Standish, Ormskirk and Southport. If you’re unsure whether we cover your area, contact our team on 01257 452 879.
20. How do I know which underfloor heating system is right for my home?
The right system depends on the property rather than simply the size of the room. We consider the existing floor construction, available floor height, insulation, heat requirements, proposed floor finish, heat source and how you want to control different areas.
Croston Plumbing & Heating can survey your property and recommend an appropriate UFH system before providing a quotation.